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Recycling is a valuable practice for communities because recyclables have value. Materials can be sold for profit and can generate a cost saving by avoiding tipping fees at the landfill. Recycling creates jobs many times as the materials move through our economy. Using recycled materials to create new products saves energy and money.

Tubs and bottles are created in different ways, using different chemicals, therefore; they must be recycled separately. Most recycling programs in New Mexico, only accept bottles with a neck and a screw top.

When items are put in the recycle containers that don't belong there they must be removed before we can bale the product. This costs the county time and money sorting the items out that don't belong. This is your tax dollars at work.

The market that we sell our plastic to only accept Number 1 and Number 2 plastic bottles with a neck. Plastic Number 1 and Number 2 are the most common plastics recycled, and bring the most profit when baled separately.

On the bottom of plastic bottles, you will find a small number inside a triangle of arrows. It may be easier for you to just remember which of the common items in your household are recyclable, for example, soda bottles are a Number 1 and laundry detergent, milk jugs, dish soap and shampoo bottles are Number 2. Some vitamin and pill bottles are Number 2.

Boxboard and cartons are very different material than corrugated cardboard, as they are mostly glue. Mills that make cardboard from recycled stock need clean, non-waxed corrugated cardboard. Nothing else will do.

Many big box stores are stepping up to recycle plastic bags, ink cartridges, rechargeable batteries and electronics. The New Mexico Recycling Coalition hosts a "Recycling Directory" on their website. Look up recycling services by material type and County.

The best way to help is by recycling, reusing, and reducing. Educate yourself about the recycling services in your area and help others to find those services, too. Remember to ROC (Recycle Otero County).